The Dos and Don’ts of Using Diamond Blades

The strongest cutting blades are typically encrusted with crushed synthetic diamonds mixed with a powered metal. The reason diamond saw blades are made in this way, according to the good folk at Devour Tools, is to ensure a clean, precise cut of some of the hardest construction materials. As diamond is the hardest natural substance available, it can cut through a variety of materials including stone, metal, porcelain, and concrete.

It is important to be careful when using diamond blades because of the risk of injury. With that in mind, the following are some of the dos and don’ts associated with diamond blades.

Do make sure that you are following the manufacturer’s guidelines of both the saw and the blade. Make sure that the blade you buy fits the machine you are using and that the blade is suitable for the material you plan to cut. Using the incorrect blade can cause injury and could also shorten the life of the machine. The bond of the blade determines which materials it should be used to cut. For example, you should choose a blade with a hard bond to cut softer materials and a soft bond when cutting hard materials. Furthermore, the spaces between segments should be wider when cutting soft materials but can be narrower for hard materials. This is because you are likely to have more debris when cutting soft materials.

Do make sure that the blade is not damaged. Even new blades should be inspected for defects and damage that could have occurred during transit.

Do try to cut wet whenever possible. Dry cutting with a diamond blade is necessary in some circumstances, but this can cause the blade and machine to overheat. Remember, when dry cutting you should always use a segmented blade to allow air to flow and stop every so often to allow the blade to cool down.

Do make sure you have a continuous flow of water on each side of the blade when wet cutting.

Do use the correct speed when cutting. Some people try to run the blade at a higher speed than is suitable for the material being cut. This can damage the blade and shorten its life. It can also damage the material you are cutting.

Do wear protective clothing and equipment when cutting with a diamond saw blade. You should make sure that you are not wearing loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in the blade and cause an injury. It is also important to wear a safety hat, goggles, face shield, gloves, and steel-capped boots or shoes.

Don’t use a wet blade for dry cutting and vice versa. It is important to ensure you have the correct blade for the job. Never try to use a blade that is bigger than the maximum recommended blade as this will damage the machine and shorten its lifespan.

Don’t use any blade that is cracked or damaged as this could result in the blade detaching while you are operating the saw, causing damage to the material at best or a significant injury at worst.

Don’t force the blade into the material as this will likely damage the saw. You should use a gentle pressure and the blade will do the rest.

Don’t operate a saw with a diamond blade without ensuring the blade guard is in place and without wearing the appropriate safety equipment.

Do not try to use a blade to cut material that is not recommended for that type of blade. Remember, soft bonds for hard materials and vice versa.